Tips for a successful carpool

Successful carpooling requires ground rules to be set and agreed upon by all carpool members. Some tips to smooth the way are provided below.

Decide who will drive on which days. Some carpools rotate driving responsibilities, while others have a dedicated driver. If there are members who wish to alternate driving, decide if you want to alternate on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

Determine your route and schedule. Establish the morning pick-up point(s). Try to choose a mutually convenient meeting place. Either pick up each carpooler at home, or meet in a central location like a carpool lot. Designate a place or places to meet for the trip home. Stick to your schedule. Make sure everyone knows the schedule and is notified of changes.

Decide on a method for reimbursing driving expenses. If all members do not share the driving equally, agree how the costs will be shared and agree on payment dates.

Decide how long the driver will wait for a passenger (usually no more than 2 or 3 minutes).

Make it clear that the carpool is for a single purpose - commuting to and from work. Do not let it become a shopping or errand service unless all members agree.

Establish a chain of communication. Identify one person as the carpool leader.

If a driver or passenger is ill, the car won't start or other issues arise, there should be an easy and clear arrangement for making adjustments. Make sure everyone has a list with each carpooler's home and work phone numbers, and establish who is to be called when.

Drive responsibly, wear seat belts and keep the vehicle in good repair. When there are passengers involved, there is no excuse for excessive speed, use of alcohol, or reckless manoeuvres.

Check your insurance policy and make sure all members are aware of it.

And finally, give the carpool a few weeks to get going - it usually takes a while to work out any "bugs" and to create a truly great carpool. If, despite your best efforts, it isn't working - try again with another carpool.

Carpool

Find a carpool partner who’s right for you in three easy steps:

Join our online ridematching service – Sign up today!

When you register, you get a FREE list of matches – people who live and work near you with similar work hours. And they’re interested in carpooling, just like you!

Contact your matches to find your preferred carpool partners.

You can start by carpooling once a week or every day. You decide with your carpool partner:

The average American spends 434 hours – that’s 18 days! – in a car each year. Wouldn't you rather spend this time with a friend? Carpooling enhances your social life and saves you money!

See how much you will save with the Commute Calendar. You may save more – ask your insurance company if they offer reduced rates for driving less.

Worried about finding a ride in an emergency? We've got you covered. You simply need to sign up for the free Emergency Ride Home program so you can get a taxicab or a rental car ride home in case of an unexpected event.